The Event is the Reason.
You already have something in common -- meeting colleagues in your industry.
Focus your conversation on the event. This is a party with a purpose. Here are
potential discussion icebreakers:
The venue (location, food, entertainment)
The sponsor
The workshops, trade booths, seminars or speakers
Initiate conversation with attendees.
Treat spouses with grace, interest and respect (yours and theirs).
Have a trade show plan, whether you are an exhibitor or an attendee.

DON'T...

Don't over-indulge in
liquor at meals, hospitality suites or after hours.

Don't presume the office,
company or business hospitality party is purely a social event. It's still
business and requires the appropriate behavior.